Cetacean-watching: global and Mediterranean case studies and best practices proposal

This thesis explores the current state of cetacean-watching globally and in the Mediterranean Sea, with the objective of developing a Mediterranean-specific guideline for sustainable whale- and dolphin-watching. A literature review covering the period from 1990 to 2024 was conducted, including scientific case studies and regulatory analyses. Case studies from regions such as the Azores, the Pelagos Sanctuary, Egypt, Panama, and New Zealand are used to identify common behavioral and physiological impacts on cetaceans, including avoidance, reduced resting time, stress, and disruptions to social or feeding behavior. These examples provide insight into both the benefits and challenges of cetacean-watching tourism. The thesis evaluates existing guidelines from key regions—Canada, the United States (NOAA), Australia, Northern Europe (AECO), and the ACCOBAMS framework in the Mediterranean—to highlight variation in regulatory standards, such as approach distances, time limits, and operator obligations. Based on this comparative analysis, a Mediterranean best practice guideline is proposed. It includes species- and site-specific recommendations, integrates environmental and social dimensions, and emphasizes enforcement, operator training, and public education. The guideline is designed to reduce risks to cetaceans while maintaining the educational and economic value of responsible tourism.